Chitosan: uses, side effects, interactions

Benefits

What is chitosan for?

Chitosan is a type of cellulose biopolymer found mainly in the outer bones of marine animals such as shrimp, crab, or lobster. Chitosan can also be found in mushrooms and yeast. Chitosan is a substance which is a chemical form of chitin.

Chitosan is used to treat obesity, high cholesterol, and Crohn's disease. This herb is also used to treat complications in kidney failure patients who frequently undergo dialysis, including high cholesterol, low blood pressure (anemia), loss of strength and appetite, and insomnia (insomnia).

Some people use chitosan directly on their gum to treat inflammation that can lead to tooth loss (periodontitis), or chew gum that contains chitosan to prevent cavities (dental caries).

How does it work?

There is not enough research into how this herbal supplement works. Please discuss with your herbalist or doctor for more information. However, there are several studies that show chitosan can absorb protein and adhere to nerve cells, promoting nerve regeneration.

Dose

The information provided below is not a substitute for medical recommendations. Always consult your herbalist or doctor before taking this medicine.

What is the usual dose for chitosan for adults?

In a weight loss evaluation study, chitosan was generally used 2.4 g per day. The dosage of this herbal supplement may be different for each patient. The dosage used depends on your age, health, and several other conditions. Herbal supplements are not always safe. Please discuss with your herbalist or doctor for the appropriate dosage.

In what forms is chitosan available?

Chitosan is an herb often available in powder and tablet form.

Side effects

What side effects can chitosan cause?

Chitosan is a drug that can cause side effects, namely:

• hypotension
• constipation, gas (flatulence), excess fat in the stool (steatorrhea), weight loss

Not everyone experiences this side effect. There may be some side effects not listed above. If you are concerned about side effects, please consult your herbalist or doctor.

Security

What should I know before consuming Chitosan?

Chitosan is a medicine that must be stored in a dry area, away from excessive heat or humidity. People with allergies to shellfish and seafood may be allergic to chitosan.

The regulations governing the use of herbal supplements are less stringent than those of drugs. Further research is needed to determine its safety. Before using, make sure the benefits of using herbal supplements outweigh the risks. Consult an herbalist or doctor for more information.

How safe is chitosan?

Do not use chitosan in children, pregnant or nursing women until more research is available to determine its safety.

Interaction

What kinds of interactions might occur when I consume chitosan?

This herbal supplement can have an effect with the medication being used or your medical condition. Consult your herbalist or doctor before using it. The potential anticoagulant effect of warfarin reported in patients receiving chitosan was 2.4 g per day.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.